BRUXISM IN DENTAL PRACTICE: DIAGNOSTIC PERSPECTIVES, SYSTEMIC ASSOCIATIONS AND MODERN THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS

Bruxism is a parafunctional activity characterized by involuntary grinding, clenching, or gnashing of teeth, occurring during wakefulness or sleep. While previously classified primarily as a dental concern, bruxism is now recognized as a multifactorial disorder with complex neurological, psychological, and biomechanical underpinnings. This review outlines current diagnostic criteria distinguishing awake and sleep bruxism and explores etiological factors including emotional stress, occlusal discrepancies, neurochemical imbalances, and systemic conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux and sleep apnea. Left untreated, bruxism may lead to significant dental and musculoskeletal complications, including enamel wear, tooth fractures, periodontal injury, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and orofacial pain. Contemporary approaches to management are multidimensional, ranging from patient education and behavioral therapy to pharmacological treatment and occlusal splint therapy. In select cases, the use of botulinum toxin has demonstrated promising outcomes in reducing muscle hyperactivity and pain. This article aims to synthesize current evidence on the pathophysiology, clinical consequences, and management of bruxism, emphasizing the importance of individualized, interdisciplinary care in improving patient outcomes.